'Lest we forget'

“Greater love hath no man than this; that a man lay down his life for his friends.” – John 15:13 (KJV)

That tenet from the Gospel of John is commonly quoted when referring to fallen soldiers. And Monday morning a large group of local citizens, veterans and community leaders gathered in a solemn demonstration of honor and respect, paying tribute to Warren Countians who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of their nation.

The annual Memorial Day Service was held Monday at the Warren County Memorial Airport, featuring patriotic displays of remembrance, including a reading of the names of local soldiers who were killed in action.

“Today we gather as a community, with hearts heavy with remembrance and eyes set firmly on the future,” 1^st Sgt. Timothy Howard said during his keynote address, reminding those in attendance Memorial Day is about much more than a day off work and excuse for backyard barbecues.

1st Sgt. Tim Howard,left, delivered Monday's keynote address. At right, County Executive Terry Bell reads the names of local fallen soldiers.

“This is a solemn reminder our freedom and our way of life was secured at a tremendous cause,” the 22-year veteran and ROTC instructor added. “We pause to remember those who gave everything. They answered the call of duty without any hesitation - often leaving behind families and loved ones – to protect the future we now cherish.”

Local veterans organizations placed wreaths at the airport's permanent memorial as part of Monday's service.

In addition to Howard’s remarks, Monday’s ceremony featured presentation and retirement of the colors by the joint honor guard of the VFW, American Legion, Marine Corps League and Vietnam Veterans of America. Wayne Wolford of Legion Post 208 led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance, and Parker Knowles performed the National Anthem.

Scouts from BSA Troop 631 read the poem “In Flanders Fields,” and members of all county veterans groups placed wreaths at the airport’s permanent memorial in honor of our community’s fallen soldiers. The names of all those killed in action were read by Mayor Ryle Chastain and County Executive Terry Bell, the honor guard provided a traditional 21-gun salute, and VVA and Legion chaplain Bobby Ashford opened and closed the ceremony with prayers.